The Belgian Niels Albert (BKCP-Powerplus) experienced a rather mixed season. However, despite the notable setbacks, there have also been some successes. Among other things, he won the World Cup in Koksijde and at the last round of the Bpost Bank Trophy in Oostmalle he proved once again that he is a specialist on sand.
Albert took the lead in the field right from the start. While initially Sven Nys (Crelan-AA Drink) was able to keep up the pace, as the race progressed Tom Meeusen (Telenet-Fidea) emerged as Albert's closest competitor. Nommay's World Cup winner was the only rider who was able to stay within striking distance of Albert until the end.
Behind them, from halfway through the race, Kevin Pauwels (Sunweb-Napoleon Games) was particularly committed and was able to celebrate third place in the end. Nys, however, continuously fell behind. In the end he finished tenth, more than a minute and a half behind. However, this was enough for him to secure the overall victory of the Bpost Bank Trophy.
The German champion Philipp Walsleben was the best German in seventh place. In the overall standings, he finished sixth.
Result
1. Niels Albert (BKCP-Powerplus)
2. Tom Meeusen (Telenet Fidea)
3. Kevin Pauwels (Sunweb-Napoleon Games)
Total
1. Sven Nys (Crelan-AA Drink)
2. Niels Albert (BKCP-Powerplus)
3. Tom Meeusen (Telenet Fidea)